Chinese → English translation for Australian authorities
Simplified and traditional Chinese documents are both accepted for translation into English. Chinese notarial certificates usually bundle the original record with a notary statement, and the translation must cover every page of that booklet, including the notary's seal and certificate number.
Key facts
| Directions handled | Into English, and English into the source language |
|---|---|
| Most requested documents | Notarial birth certificate, household register (hukou), marriage certificate, graduation certificate |
| Delivery format | PDF carrying the translator's stamp, signature and statement |
| Must always match | Name spelling exactly as printed in the passport |
Documents most often translated in this pair
- Notarial certificates of birth, marriage, no criminal record and kinship
- Household register (hukou) booklet pages
- Marriage and divorce certificates
- Graduation certificate, degree certificate and academic transcript
- Employment and income records used for skilled visa claims
- Identity card, both sides
Names, script and dates
- Names are shown in the pinyin form printed in the passport, with the family name identified.
- Both simplified and traditional characters are handled; the translation notes which script the original uses.
- Notary certificate numbers, issuing notary office and seal text are all reproduced in the translation.
- Place names follow the official romanisation used on the passport or issuing authority's own English text.
Why translations in this pair get sent back
- Translating only the record page of a notarial booklet and omitting the notary statement.
- Missing hukou pages for family members named in the application.
- Photographing the identity card on one side only.
- Inconsistent romanisation of the same name across different documents.
Frequently asked questions
Does a Chinese notarial certificate already satisfy Australian requirements?
The notarial certificate proves the record; it does not replace the English translation. Australian authorities still require an English translation prepared to their stated standard.
Which pages of the hukou should be sent?
Send the cover page, the household information page and the personal page of every person referred to in the application.
Continue reading
Content last reviewed: August 2026. Requirements set by receiving bodies can change; always confirm them on the authority’s own website before submitting.
Official sources you can verify
The information on this page is based on the official sources below. Reviewed August 2026. Requirements change — always confirm with the receiving authority before lodging.
- NAATI — Find a Translator (naati.com.au)Official register for verifying the certification status of a translator or interpreter.
- Department of Consular Affairs, MFA ThailandRules and procedures for legalisation of documents in Thailand.
- Department of Provincial Administration (Ministry of Interior)Civil and family registration records and certified copies.